Protecting and Restoring Oregon’s Kelp Forests

While hidden from human eyes beneath the surface of the ocean, kelp forests cover nearly a quarter of the world’s coastlines, harbor biodiverse ecosystems, and support a variety of fisheries and industries. However, Oregon’s vitally important kelp forests have significantly declined in recent years. Dr. Sara Hamilton and Elyse Kochman will present on the current state of these ecosystems, what Oregon’s options are for kelp forest protection and restoration, and how ORKA is moving this critical work forward.

The Oregon Kelp Alliance (ORKA) is a community-based organization representing diverse interests in kelp forest stewardship and restoration in the state of Oregon. ORKA is made up of scientists, natural resource managers, tribal representatives, commercial fishers, tour guides, chefs, and many more all working to protect healthy kelp forests, restore targeted areas, and increase resiliency of Oregon’s kelp forests now and for generations to come.

This talk is brought to you by the Oregon Kelp Alliance, Curry Watersheds Partnership, and Curry Public Library.

Photo credit: Brandon Cole